Great Valley Museum and Planetarium: A Central Valley Treasure
Explore California's natural heritage and the cosmos at Modesto's Great Valley Museum and Planetarium: A journey of discovery for all ages on the MJC West Campus.
The Great Valley Museum and Planetarium, nestled on the west campus of Modesto Junior College, offers a captivating journey through the natural history of California's Central Valley and beyond. With its diverse exhibits, including live animal displays, meticulously recreated habitat dioramas, and an immersive planetarium experience, the museum provides an enriching educational experience for visitors of all ages. Explore the wonders of the night sky, discover the unique ecosystems of the region, and engage with interactive displays that bring science to life. From the Science on a Sphere exhibit showcasing real-time global events to the Discovery Room filled with hands-on activities, the museum promises an unforgettable adventure for families, students, and science enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this hidden gem and uncover the natural treasures of the Central Valley.
A brief summary to Great Valley Museum and Planetarium
- 2201 Blue Gum Ave, Modesto, California, 95358, US
- +1209-575-6196
- Visit website
- Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
- Thursday 9 am-3 pm
- Friday 9 am-3 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum's website for the planetarium show schedule, as showtimes and topics vary and are not recommended for children under 5.
- Attend "Science Night at the Museum" on the first Friday of select months for evening access to exhibits, planetarium shows, and telescope viewings.
- Explore the interactive periodic table exhibit to learn about the elements and see real samples.
- Visit the Discovery Room for hands-on activities and to see live animals, including snakes and tarantulas.
- Take advantage of the free StanRTA bus Route 34 that runs between MJC East and West Campus.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Modesto, head west on CA-132/9th Street. Continue onto Carpenter Road. Turn right onto Blue Gum Avenue. The museum is located in the Science Community Center on the MJC West Campus. Parking is available in the campus lots. Check signage for student vs. staff parking. Parking is free on weekends. During the week, a daily parking ticket may be purchased from parking ticket dispensers for $2.00.
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Public Transport
Several Stanislaus Regional Transit Authority (StanRTA) bus routes serve the MJC West Campus. From the Modesto Transit Center, take Route 33 and get off at the Woodland Ave & Shasta Ave stop, a short walk from the Science Community Center. Alternatively, take Route 34, a direct route between MJC East and West Campus, and get off at the Blue Gum Avenue & Prichard Avenue stop. Check the StanRTA website for current schedules and route information. Students can ride the "S" for free by showing their student ID.
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Walking
From elsewhere on the MJC West Campus, follow the campus walkways towards the Science Community Center on Blue Gum Avenue. The museum entrance is located on the first floor. Use the campus map for detailed navigation.
Discover more about Great Valley Museum and Planetarium
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